To be or not to be in Europe: is that the question? ; Britain's European question and an in/out referendum

In: International affairs, Band 91, Heft 1, S. 77-91

Abstract

The idea of holding an in/out referendum on Britain's membership of the European Union has increasingly become a norm of British politics, an act seen as a necessary step for the country to answer what David Cameron described as the 'European question in British politics'. A referendum, it is hoped, will cleanse British politics of a poisonous debate about Europe and democratically sanction a new stable UK-EU relationship, whether the UK stays in or leaves. Such hopes expect more of a referendum than it can provide. The European question is a multifaceted one and whatever the result of a referendum it is unlikely to address underlying questions that will continue to cause problems for UK-EU relations and Britain's European debate. A referendum can be a step forward in better managing the relationship and debate, but it is only that: a single step, after which further steps will be needed. Coming to terms with the European question and bringing stability to Britain's relations with the EU-whether in or outside the EU-will require comprehensive, longer-term changes which a referendum can help trigger but in no way guarantee. (International Affairs (Oxford) / SWP)